Reviews tagging 'Injury/Injury detail'

Please Don't Tell My Parents I'm a Supervillain by Richard Roberts

1 review

jhbandcats's review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous funny mysterious fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.5

If I view this as a cute, fun story for kids 10-14, then it’s fine. If, however, I compare it to the Harry Potter books and the His Dark Materials trilogy, it pales in comparison. Those two series were complex and detailed tales with strong plot and characterization. I was emotionally invested in what was happening. 

By contrast, the Supervillain book was kids playing with their new superpowers and having big, messy, not-too-scary fights. The plot was just that - kids, new powers, fights. There’s clearly something serious going on with Ray’s home life but it’s never explored. This had potential to be a good coming of age novel but that didn’t happen. 

That said, I really liked the final section that takes place in the library. Stories - both fiction and nonfiction - have come to life throughout the library such as Lincoln’s assassination, horror stories, and Raymond Chandleresque detective stories. I wanted to be there and experience that. 

Overall, it’s a funny book but nothing I could take seriously. And even kids’ books should be taken seriously, whether or not their story is serious. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings
More...